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The Maratha Empire, founded by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, emerged as a dominant force in 17th-18th century India.
Key rulers included the Chhatrapatis (monarchs) and later the Peshwas (prime ministers), who became de facto rulers.
Known for their military strategies, administrative reforms (like Ashtapradhan Mandal), and unique revenue systems (Chauth, Sardeshmukhi).
The empire expanded significantly, challenging Mughal supremacy and influencing the political landscape of the subcontinent before its decline against the British.
'Chhatrapati' was the title adopted by Shivaji Maharaj, signifying a sovereign monarch, literally 'Lord of the Umbrella' (protector). The 'Peshwa' was originally the chief minister in the Ashtapradhan council. Over time, particularly after Chhatrapati Shahu's reign, the Peshwas, especially from the Bhat family, became the de facto rulers, centralizing power in Pune and expanding the empire while the Chhatrapatis remained titular heads in Satara.
Simple Analogy: Imagine a company where the founder (Chhatrapati) initially holds all power. Later, a highly capable CEO (Peshwa) takes over daily operations and expansion, eventually becoming the primary decision-maker, while the founder's descendants retain the original title but with less direct control.
Shivaji Maharaj's council of eight ministers, designed for efficient administration. Each minister was responsible for a specific department, such as finance, foreign affairs, justice, and military. It was an advisory body, with the Chhatrapati retaining ultimate authority.
Birth of Shivaji Maharaj.
Shivaji Maharaj's coronation as Chhatrapati at Raigad.
Death of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Balaji Vishwanath appointed as the first prominent Peshwa.
Bajirao I's reign as Peshwa, significant expansion of Maratha power.
Third Battle of Panipat, a major setback for the Marathas.
End of Maratha Empire with the defeat of Peshwa Bajirao II by the British.
The Maratha Empire rose in direct opposition to the declining Mughal Empire, challenging its supremacy in the Deccan and eventually contributing to its downfall.
The Marathas were one of the last major Indian powers to resist British expansion, leading to the Anglo-Maratha Wars which ultimately resulted in British dominance over India.
GS Paper I - Indian History (Medieval Period). Questions often focus on administrative systems, key personalities, causes/effects of major battles, and socio-economic conditions.
General Awareness - History. Direct factual questions on rulers, battles, or key terms.
General Awareness - History. Basic factual questions.
General Awareness - History. Basic factual questions.
General Awareness - History. Basic factual questions.
Consider the following statements: 1. Amarkantak Hills are at the confluence of Vindhya and Sahyadri Ranges. 2. Biligirirangan Hills constitute the easternmost part of Satpura Range. 3. Seshachalam Hills constitute the southernmost part of Western Ghats. How many of the statements given above are correct?
Answer: None
Consider the following statements: 1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight. 2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: Neither 1 nor 2
With reference to Home Guards, consider the following statements: 1. Home Guards are raised under the Home Guards Act and Rules of the Central Government. 2. The role of the Home Guards is to serve as an auxiliary force to the police in maintenance of internal security. 3. To prevent infiltration on the international border/coastal areas, the Border Wing Home Guards Battalions have been raised in some States. How many of the above statements are correct?
Answer: Only two
High in UPSC and State PSCs, moderate in other general awareness sections of competitive exams.
Self-rule, Shivaji's concept of an independent Maratha kingdom.
A tax (one-fourth of revenue) levied by Marathas on conquered or neighbouring territories for protection.
An additional levy (one-tenth of revenue) claimed by Marathas as hereditary overlords.
Council of eight ministers under Shivaji Maharaj.